Weatherstripping works like a gasket around your vehicle's doors, windows and trunk. It prevents air and rain from entering your vehicle through cracks around these areas. When your weatherstripping becomes old or faulty, repairing it may be an option to consider before replacing it. Your Toyota Sienna minivan has weatherstrips around each of its doors and its front-seat windows. If you have a sunroof, you'll have weatherstripping there as well. Repairing your weatherstripping does not take mechanical skills.
Identify the areas of your weatherstrip that need repair. Pay close attention to any whistling sounds or water leaks around your windows or doors, to identify faulty areas. Determine whether or not some strip areas are in need of repair by any visible cracks in the strip.
Clean weatherstrips with mild soap and water. Make sure you remove all dirt and grime that may be on or near the weatherstrips. Allow to air dry.
Apply the silicone sealant to all weatherstrip areas in need of repair. Follow the instructions found on the silicone sealant container for more specific instructions on the application of the sealant and drying information. Allow the sealant to air dry before any contact is made to the area.
Close all doors and windows once the sealant has completely dried. Drive your vehicle on a highway with the windows closed and listen for any whistle sounds.
Hose your vehicle down with a garden water hose to ensure that the sealant prevents water leaks. Hose the windows and doors directly for a more effective test. This will ensure that your vehicle's interior will remain dry during a car wash.
